Hungry? Let’s explore the vibrant culinary landscape of Tondo on our Ugbo food crawl! A community home to diverse flavours and culinary customs, Ugbo Street is a paradise for both street food lovers and those eager to explore the world of gastronomy.
The lively stalls and enticing aromas in the air make Ugbo a delightful place even before you’ve taken your first bite. So, grab your appetite! Let’s uncover the hidden gems and savoury secrets that make Ugbo a must-visit destination for any food lover.
Also read: 7 Manila Food Tours To Learn the City’s Growing Flavours
Getting there
To get to Ugbo Street for your food crawl, hop on a jeepney, bus, or van bound for Divisoria! Once you reach Divisoria, catch another jeepney heading towards Velazquez Street in Tondo. Just let the driver know you’d like to be dropped off at Ugbo Street.
TripZilla Tip: Just a friendly heads-up — Tondo might not be the safest spot, especially if you’re on your own and not familiar with the area. As you travel, stay aware and keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t forget to bring cash and coins, so you won’t have a hard time paying the vendors in the area.
Must-try Ugbo Street food and where to find them
Korean street food
Experience the flavours of Korea without boarding a plane when you go on a food crawl at Ugbo Street, Tondo. As you walk through the vibrant food stalls, follow the rich aromas of Korean cuisine that blend seamlessly with the local food landscape.
Here’s where the tantalising scents will lead you: Oppa Foods, an Ugbo Street stall serving a wide range of Korean flavours that hits the right spot every time! Among the must-try dishes, kimbap stands out as a favourite for many. Filled with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, eggs, and sometimes meat or fish, these seaweed rice rolls are the perfect snack on the go.
Another crowd-pleaser is tteokbokki, a spicy and sweet delight made from chewy rice cakes simmered in fiery red chilli sauce. Then, there’s the fishcake known as odeng. It’s served on skewers and often enjoyed with a side of the broth it was cooked in. Last but not least, the Korean corn dog offers a crunchy experience and oozes with cheese! Which one’s your first pick?
Also read: Samgyupsal Manila: 10 Best KBBQ Restaurants to Satisfy Your Cravings
Classic Pinoy ihaw-ihaw
Ihaw-ihaw in Ugbo Street is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. Gathering around the grill, watching as the food is cooked to perfection, and bonding over expertly grilled fare create moments of genuine connection and joy. Aurings Ihawan At Kainan Sa Ugbo embodies the Filipino communal culture perfectly!
The variety of ihaw-ihaw offerings in Ugbo is vast, catering to all tastes and preferences. Grilled hotdogs — a simple yet universally loved treat. Chicken and pork intestines, cleaned and coiled, become isaw after being grilled to crispy perfection. And, of course, Pinoy BBQ — skewers of marinated pork that are simultaneously sweet, salty, and slightly charred — is a staple that will keep you reordering an extra cup of rice. Give their best-selling sitrason bituka (deep-fried intestines) a try; plus, it’s perfectly paired with beer.
These dishes, enjoyed with a side of vinegar dipping sauce or a heap of steaming rice, make for a fulfilling meal that satisfies the soul as much as the stomach. The simple act of enjoying ihaw-ihaw becomes a testament to the rich culinary culture of the Philippines, inviting everyone to savour the flavours and warmth of Filipino hospitality.
Also read: Food Itinerary Tips for an Exciting Gastronomic Escapade
Mini doughnuts
You have probably seen these TikTok-famous mini doughnuts from Yanin’s. These aren’t just any ordinary doughnuts; they’re bite-sized pieces of heaven that come adorned with an array of mouthwatering toppings. From the soft, gooey sweetness of marshmallows to the vibrant crunch of candy sprinkles, the rich decadence of chocolate, and the nutty, textured bites of almonds, Yanin’s mini doughnuts offer a personalised treat for every palate.
Be warned, though — the popularity of Yanin’s creations means you’re likely in for a long wait. But as anyone who’s tasted their offerings will attest, the wait is a small price to pay for such delectable rewards. Besides, patrons can also indulge in a variety of refreshments, perfect for pairing with their sweet treats. You can choose from their selection of milk tea, frappes and even mango tapioca drinks. Trust us, this one’s a must-try to any Ugbo Street food crawl.
Halo-halo
Your Ugbo Street food crawl would not be complete without visiting the legendary establishment that has been a cornerstone of the local food scene since 1960: Aling Consuelo Halo-Halo Sa Ugbo. This iconic spot has garnered fame far and wide, not just for its longevity but for serving what many consider the quintessence of Filipino dessert. The halo-halo — a colourful medley of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and a variety of ingredients ranging from sweet beans to fruity jellies and creamy leche flan — is an art form here.
The line outside Aling Consuelo’s, a sure blockbuster any day of the week, is a vivid testament to its enduring popularity and the special place it holds in the hearts of those who visit. Foodies can also indulge in other classic Filipino refreshments like mais con yelo and saging con yelo.
Japanese skewers
A culinary gem has been making waves among the local food aficionados and visitors of Ugbo Street: RameNaki. This innovative eatery has quickly become a go-to destination for those craving the savoury delights of Japanese cuisine, particularly its offering of exquisitely prepared Japanese skewers. RameNaki, with its clever play on words that’s a nod to the beloved ramen spot, has embraced the art of yakitori. Indeed, the eatery serves an array of skewered meats, vegetables, and seafood, all grilled to perfection over charcoal for that unmistakable smoky flavour.
From succulent chicken pieces, tender pork belly, and juicy beef to an assortment of vegetables and seafood options, there’s a skewer to satisfy every palate. What sets RameNaki apart is not just the quality of its food but also the ambience that captures the essence of a casual Japanese street-side dining experience. It’s similar to yatai — open-air stalls that serve on-the-go food, right in the heart of Ugbo Street, Tondo.
The popularity of RameNaki among both locals and tourists speaks volumes of its success in bringing a taste of Japan to Ugbo.
Tumbong soup
For the adventurous foodies looking to explore the unique and bold flavours of Ugbo Street, the House of DG Lechon at Tumbong sa Ugbo offers an experience that is both intriguing and unforgettable. This establishment is celebrated for its signature dish, tumbong (pig’s large intestines) soup, a delicacy that appeals to those with a taste for wild culinary adventures. Don’t worry; the tumbong is meticulously cleaned and prepared, then simmered in a rich and flavourful broth until tender.
Of course, House of DG doesn’t stop at just offering exceptional tumbong soup; The Ugbo hotspot is also famous for its succulent lechon! Bite into crispy skin and tender meat oozing with flavour that is best paired with kiampong — a savoury rice casserole dish.
Sizzling bone marrow and bulalo
Unbuckle your belt for this next Ugbo Street food trip entry! House of DG Bulalohan sa Ugbo has become a sanctuary for those seeking the comforts of traditional Filipino cuisine.
Let’s start with something sinful: The sizzling bone marrow, rich and decadent, is a feast for the senses. Each bite is so tender that it melts in your mouth with a burst of flavours that’s heartily satisfying.
The bulalo, on the other hand, is a testament to the timeless appeal of Filipino comfort food. Prepared with tender beef shank and marrow bones and simmered for hours into a rich broth, it evokes a sense of warmth and well-being with every spoonful.
House of DG Bulalohan sa Ugbo stands out as a must-visit spot for those looking to satisfy their cravings for traditional Filipino dishes. Whether you’re in the mood to challenge your palate with the luscious taste of sizzling bone marrow or seeking the familiar comfort of bulalo, this place promises an experience that’s worth every bite.
Wok-fried Chinese food
Adding to our Ugbo Street food crawl guide, Pa-Wok Manila fuses traditional flavours of China with local ingredients. The Chinese-style stir-fried noodles are a big favourite, with spices, veggies, and meats all cooked together in a super-hot wok. It’s a tasty mix that everyone loves.
Additionally, the Pa-Wok rice bowls are also a best-seller. Enjoy fluffy grains served as a base for an array of toppings ranging from succulent meats to fresh vegetables — all seasoned with rich sauces.
Also read: A Guide To Street Food In The Philippines: What To Eat & Expect
From savoury flavours to decadent sweet treats, Ugbo definitely has something for every foodie! Come with your appetite and a zest for culinary exploration as we embark on a journey to discover the secret delights and flavorful treasures on our Ugbo Street food crawl.
Featured image credit: Aling Consuelo Halo-Halo Sa Ugbo
